JCIO 92/25

   

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

Mr Justice Keehan, on behalf of the Lady Chief Justice and with the agreement of the Lord Chancellor, has issued Miss Fiona Williams JP of the Birmingham and Solihull Bench with a formal warning for misconduct.

Facts

Upon appointment, all magistrates sign a declaration and undertaking, which includes a commitment to act with circumspection and maintain the dignity, reputation, and good standing of the magistracy. Judicial office holders are also expected to treat others fairly and respectfully, remain patient and tolerant, and act professionally and courteously.

Miss Williams was subject to a complaint concerning allegations of displaying anger and frustration towards a colleague. A separate complaint concerned allegations of speaking patronisingly to parties, commenting on political issues in the court retiring room and delaying proceedings by showing personal photographs to colleagues.

Ms Williams’ representations

Miss Williams admitted to shouting at a colleague and showing a loss of temper. She expressed regret and that she should have handled the situation differently. She also accepted that it was inappropriate for her to comment on political matters in the retiring room and gave assurances that she would concentrate on court business in future.

Findings

Following an investigation under the Judicial Conduct (Magistrates) Rules 2023, a nominated committee member of the Midlands Conduct Advisory Committee concluded that Miss Williams’ actions amounted to misconduct and recommended a formal warning. In reaching this recommendation, they noted that Ms Williams had served for 29 years without previous disciplinary findings, but considered the repeated nature of the incidents and her role as an experienced Presiding Justice to be aggravating factors.

Decision

After careful consideration, Mr Justice Keehan and the Lord Chancellor agreed that a formal warning was an proportionate sanction in all the circumstances. 
 

Notes for Editors

Media queries in relation to the JCIO should be made in the first instance to the Judicial Press Office - telephone 020 7073 4852 or via email - press.enquiries@judiciary.gsi.gov.uk 

Sanctions for misconduct by judicial office-holders are set out in the Constitutional Reform Act 2005. They are, in order of severity: formal advice, formal warning, reprimand and removal from office.

For more information about the Office, including details on how to make a complaint against a judicial office holder, you can visit the JCIO website at: Judicial Conduct Investigations website